Watching Naruto appear where he stood, all five people present wore helpless expressions.
Of course, Shizune and Sakura also showed a trace of shock. Although Ueno Kei had said Naruto's concealment technique was still lacking, the fact was that only Tsunade, Ueno Kei, and Kakashi had noticed Naruto. Shizune and Sakura had not sensed him at all.
This meant Naruto's control over his own presence was still quite refined. Aside from those with Kage-level strength, no one would be able to detect him—sensory-type ninja excepted.
"Naruto, you need to understand that I won't allow you to go." Since Naruto already knew about this, Ueno Kei knew there was no way to keep muddling through. Of course, he did not think his words would be particularly effective—this was Naruto, after all. Still, some things needed to be said.
"Mm, I know, Brother Kei. But you understand too—I'm definitely going! For Sasuke!" Naruto smiled faintly, his tone utterly resolute. Looking at Naruto's determined expression, Ueno Kei let out a soft sigh. His face held a trace of helplessness, but also satisfaction.
Naruto was still Naruto—warmhearted toward others, persistent, never giving up, with that pure heart of his.
"Mm, I've always known." Ueno Kei smiled faintly. Truly, he sometimes envied Naruto. He wanted to be like Naruto too—not having to consider so much scheming and intrigue, not having to think about practical interests and the like, simply fighting and striving for his dreams.
But for Ueno Kei, that was merely an impossible wish. As the head of Konoha's Anbu, he could not be so pure. Besides, Ueno Kei was Ueno Kei, and Naruto was Naruto. The things they carried were entirely different.
*Back then, Sensei was the light, and Danzō was the darkness. Now, Naruto, you will forever be Konoha's dazzling sun, while